DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICE ONTARIO ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT
DEVELOPMENTAL SERVICE ONTARIO ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT
A Developmental Service Ontario Eligibility Assessment evaluates cognitive and adaptive functioning to determine eligibility for Developmental Services Ontario services and supports. Under the Services and Supports to Promote the Social Inclusion of Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act (2008), individuals must meet three eligibility criteria: cognitive, adaptive, and age of onset. Our clinic provides assessments to Ontario residents, including a clinical interview, background history review, and standardized testing.
To learn more about how to access DSO services, click here.
Our DSO Eligibility Assessment is designed for adults. Each DSO Eligibility Assessment consists of a clinical interview, a comprehensive review of background history, and standardized testing measuring cognitive and adaptive functioning. The assessment is conducted in-person at our clinic and typically takes up to 2-3 hours to complete.
Upon completion, a detailed written report is prepared addressing all three DSO eligibility criteria: cognitive functioning, adaptive functioning, and age of onset. Your results are reviewed with you in a dedicated feedback session, where we walk you through the findings and guide you on next steps, including how to submit your report to your regional DSO office.
1. Cognitive Functioning
An evaluation of your ability to reason, organize, plan, make judgments, and identify consequences. This is typically conducted as a standardized IQ test.
2. Adaptive Functioning
An evaluation of your capacity to gain independence and apply skills in everyday life, including: conceptual skills
social skills and
practical skills
3. Age of Onset
If assessed after the age of 18, the psychologist must indicate whether the disability began before age 18 and is expected to continue throughout the individual's lifetime. If the assessment is completed before age 18, no age of onset information is required.
Our DSO Eligibility Assessments are conducted by registered psychologists and psychological associates with experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities. Individuals typically seek this assessment when applying for access to adult developmental services and supports in Ontario, such as residential support, community participation, and caregiver respite services.
The assessments at The PsychoEd Clinic are comprehensive and meet all DSO eligibility requirements. For individuals seeking Disability Tax Credit (DTC) support who have not previously been assessed by our clinic, a DTC consultation is included as part of the DSO assessment process (eligibility for DTC is not guaranteed).
Each assessment includes a detailed written report addressing all required eligibility criteria, a feedback session to review findings and discuss next steps, and a timely turnaround to support individuals through the eligibility process.
The DSO Eligibility Assessment fee is $3,500. This assessment may be eligible for government funding and we recommend contacting your local DSO office to confirm available funding options prior to booking.
Our psychological assessments are also often partially or fully covered by private insurance. After your intake call, our team will provide a detailed estimate that you can submit to your insurance provider to confirm your coverage.
intake@psychoedclinic.com
Phone: 437-886-6311
Fax: 437-889-7179
Do I need a referral to book a DSO Eligibility Assessment?
No, a referral is not required
Is DSO eligibility guaranteed after completing the assessment?
No, DSO eligibility is not guaranteed. The assessment provides the necessary documentation to support your application, however eligibility is determined by your regional DSO office.
What if I already have a prior psychological assessment on file?
A prior psychological assessment is applicable for individuals seeking Disability Tax Credit (DTC) support. The DSO Eligibility Assessment is its own independent assessment and must be completed regardless of any prior assessments on file.
Can the DSO assessment be used for a Disability Tax Credit (DTC) application?
Yes. For individuals seeking DTC support who have not previously been assessed by our clinic, a DTC consultation is included as part of the DSO assessment process.
Is an Autism Evaluation included in the DSO assessment?
An Autism Evaluation is available as an optional add-on to the DSO assessment for individuals who wish to pursue a formal autism assessment alongside their DSO evaluation.
What if I am under 18?
The DSO Eligibility Assessment at our clinic is designed for adults. Children and youth may be eligible for a psychoeducational assessment. Please book a free intake call for more information.